TELL THEM WHAT THEY WANNA HEAR

How to strike a balance between telling a hiring manager what they want to hear and staying true to your own values and aspirations?
During a pivotal job interview, I found myself in the office of a newly-promoted CFO.
As I entered the room, I quickly observed the surroundings – a family photo on the desk, a perfectly arranged line of Nespresso capsules – all clues that helped me paint a picture of the person before me.

Considering the individual's nationality, career stage, and time spent as an expat - I did my homework on LinkedIn and found many details about him there - I realized that succession planning might be of great importance to him and the company.
When the inevitable question arose, "Where do you see yourself in five years?" I made a conscious decision to respond honestly, yet strategically. I said, "Well, I envision myself in your position. My goal is to grow within this organization."

This response aligned with what the CFO likely wanted to hear from a qualified, experienced, and ambitious professional.
It is essential to recognize that, in certain contexts, expressing your willingness to contribute to the company's long-term vision and growth can be beneficial during the hiring process.
However, this does not mean sacrificing your integrity or altering your aspirations to appease the interviewer merely.

In my case, my response was genuine, as I saw the potential for growth and alignment with my own career goals within that particular organization.
It is crucial to be transparent and authentic about your aspirations, while also understanding the company's priorities and values.

As a career-driven individual, you may encounter moments where balancing integrity with what the hiring manager wants to hear can be challenging.
Here are some tips to navigate such situations with grace:
1. Research and Empathize: Investigate the company's values, goals, and culture before the interview. Put yourself in the interviewer's shoes to understand their perspective better.
2. Align Your Aspirations: When expressing your goals, ensure they are in line with the company's objectives. Articulate how your growth aligns with the organization's long-term success.
3. Stay True to Yourself: Be honest about your career ambitions, but never compromise your core values or interests solely to fit the interviewer's expectations.
4. Showcase Your Unique Strengths: Emphasize the unique value you bring to the table and how your skills can contribute to the company's success.

Remember, an interview is a two-way conversation to assess mutual fit.
While it's essential to present yourself in the best light, it is equally vital for the company to recognize and appreciate your authentic self.

As you embark on your journey to find the perfect fit, always remember that integrity and genuine communication will pave the way for lasting success and fulfillment in your career.
Let's seize the opportunities that align perfectly with your vision.

Let's rock.